| |
As the holidays approach and we think of our family and friends, many women also hope to add to their own family. If you are thinking about getting pregnant, start taking care of yourself now. Know about how health conditions and risk factors could affect you or your unborn baby. For example, some foods, habits and medicines can harm your baby – even before he or she is conceived.
Make an appointment for a pre-natal visit with a board certified OB/GYN before pregnancy to learn what you can do to prepare your body. Ideally, women should give themselves at least 3 months to prepare before getting pregnant.
The five most important things you can do before becoming pregnant are (source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services):
- Take 400 micrograms (400 mcg or 0.4 mg) of folic acid every day for at least 3 months before getting pregnant to lower your risk of some birth defects of the brain and spine. You can get folic acid from some foods. But it is hard to get all the folic acid you need from foods alone. Taking a vitamin with folic acid is the best and easiest way to be sure you’re getting enough.
- Stop smoking and drinking alcohol. Ask your doctor for help.
- If you have a medical condition, be sure it is under control. Some conditions include asthma, diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, obesity, thyroid disease, or epilepsy. Be sure your vaccinations are up to date.
- Talk to your doctor about any over-the-counter and prescription medicines you are using. These include dietary or herbal supplements. Some medicines are not safe during pregnancy. At the same time, stopping medicines you need also can b e harmful.
- Avoid contact with toxic substances or materials at work and at home that could be harmful. Stay away from chemicals and cat or rodent feces.
The caring Genesis OB/GYN physicians would be privileged to care for you during your pregnancy, delivery and throughout your life. Please call to make an appointment for a pre-natal visit. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about pre-natal care and pregnancy visit our Women’s Health Library.
Source: http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/prenatal-care.cfm
Other News
|
